Rohit Sharma opted to take the tent first after winning the toss against IND in the second innings on Friday (September 27). BAN Test at Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.
Rohit Sharma, with perfect conditions for fast bowlers, did not hesitate to bowl first. The decision also ended India’s incredible streak of 9 years.
The Men in Blue have not decided to top a home Test since 2015. Also, the last time they decided to bat first after winning the toss in a home Test was during the Bengaluru Test against South Africa.
Rohit’s bowling decision initially surprised many and former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali was one of them. In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Basit Ali said that the presenters were initially surprised by the bowling decision.
Ali said it would be difficult to bat on the pitch in the fourth innings before suggesting that rain could play a big role in India’s decision.
“India won the toss and elected to bowl first. It was a surprise for me. The pitch looked very good. After Bumrah’s two balls took a bounce to the keeper, I was wondering what would happen in the fourth innings for India. However, it has been raining for two days, which is a factor”, said Basit Ali.
Bowling first here means India want to bat once: Basit Ali
Speaking later, Basit Ali said that the home team wanted to bat only once in the Test and win the game by an innings. Ali has warned Rohit Sharma’s team that they could face a few problems if they are asked to bat for the second time in the Test.
“Bowling here means India want to bat only once. They want to win this Test by an innings, otherwise there will be a problem. Rain is forecast tomorrow too. If India score seven wickets tomorrow, the Test match will be in their pocket,” Ali said.
The opening day of the Test was marred by rain and only 35 overs were made. Although Akash Deep picked two early wickets for the Rohit Sharma-led side, Bangladesh managed to recover. They were 107/3 at stumps. Mominul Haque and Mushfiqur Rahim were unbeaten at the crease.
